PCB Faces Frustration Over Test Series Itinerary Delay
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi remains steadfast in his determination to host the upcoming Test series against England in Pakistan. However, the PCB’s international cricket department has yet to finalize the itinerary, leaving Naqvi frustrated.
The three-Test series is scheduled to commence on October 7, with Multan, Karachi, and Rawalpindi designated as potential venues. However, ongoing construction work at these stadiums in preparation for next year’s ICC Champions Trophy has raised concerns about their availability.
“With less than a month to go before the first Test, the international department has not even decided where the opening match will be held,” an insider revealed to PTI.
Despite Naqvi’s rejection of a proposal to relocate the series to the UAE or South Africa, the department has not formally announced the tour itinerary.
“The Chairman has emphasized that moving the series would harm the PCB’s reputation, and Rawalpindi and Multan should be used for the three-match series,” the insider stated.
The delay in announcing the venues and itinerary has also impacted the PCB’s revenue generation efforts. Broadcasters have encountered difficulties in selling the telecast rights of the series abroad.
“Even broadcasters who have acquired the rights to sell the series internationally are concerned because they have yet to find a buyer to broadcast the matches in the UK,” the insider added.
The PCB recently suspended the National Under-19 Championship after just one day of play due to complaints about irregularities in team selection and a lack of budget approval.